A couple who popped into the Marquis of Lorne in Nettlecombe as tourists ended up as the new landlords of the Palmers’ pub.

Steve and Tracey Brady worked for more than 20 years at a hotel and restaurant in Oxfordshire that was popular with racing drivers from the Williams Grand Prix team. He was chef, she managed front of house.

They visited The Marquis of Lorne with Tracey’s sister Sue Semmence, who lives in West Milton and teaches at Bridport County Primary School.

‘We heard the tenancy was up for grabs, we met Palmers and we clicked. It was all quite quick,’ said Tracey.

Steve said: ‘We’re family orientated, and we liked the family-owned feeling of Palmers. Plus they wanted to go in the same direction with the pub as we did.

‘The main priority was to upgrade the seven bedrooms, which we’ve completed, very nicely, if I may say so. Each one is now a different colour, repainted, and re-carpeted.

‘The food is all locally sourced, wherever possible. I’m cooking from scratch, with a big emphasis on flavour, quality and presentation.’

Tracey added: ‘We’re serving three Palmers real ales in tip-top condition, and we aim to get the pub back in the Good Beer Guide.’

Tim Woodrow, Palmers’ Tenanted Trade Director, said: ‘We’re pleased to welcome such talented and enthusiastic landlords. I’m sure they will be a big success at the Marquis, which is one of Palmers’ flagship pubs.’

Steve and Tracey intend to continue with such popular and long-established Nettlecombe events as the fireworks on bonfire night (November 5) and the Boxing Day pram race.

They also plan to introduce wine dinners, where a special menu is cooked to accompany wines from a particular region.

‘We just love this area,’ said Tracey. ‘It’s fantastic, so quiet and peaceful, far more laid-back and easy going, people will actually talk to you rather than just rush, rush all the time’

Palmers Brewery have also made a short online video about Tracey, Steve and The Marquis of Lorne: